Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2025

Author Spotlight: Overcoming Challenges in Drosophila Sleep Measurement Using DAM System
Published on: October 20, 2023
Insomnia and Other Sleep Disorders in Older Adults
Zachary L Cohen1, Paul M Eigenberger2, Katherine M Sharkey3
1Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 101 Manning Drive, Campus Box #7160, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
Abstract:
Sleep disruption is common in older adults and is associated with many poor health outcomes. It is vital for providers to understand insomnia and other sleep disorders in this population. This article outlines age-related changes in sleep, and medical, psychiatric, environmental, and psychosocial factors that may impact sleep. It addresses the evaluation of sleep symptoms and diagnosis of sleep disorders. It aims to examine the evidence for non-pharmacological and pharmacologic treatment options for insomnia while weighing factors particularly germane to the aging adult..
Related Concept Videos
Insomnia
Multiple factors contribute...
Management of Insomnia
Insufficient Sleep and Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation is a more severe form of sleep loss...
Sleep-Wake Cycles
NREM Sleep
NREM sleep comprises four progressive stages that seamlessly merge:
Sleepwalking and Sleep Talking
Factors that increase the likelihood of sleepwalking include sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption. Contrary to common beliefs, it is safe...
Sedatives and Hypnotics Drugs: Miscellaneous Agents
Melatonin congeners like ramelteon (Rozerem) and tasimelteon (Hetlioz) selectively bind to melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) and thus mimic the actions of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Tasimelteon is primarily used for non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder, common in blind patients. They are also used to treat conditions like insomnia...

